The Ryder Cup format is broken. Here's the fix.

Three changes that would take it from great event to unmissable one.

By Tommy DiPasquale · Jul 9, 2026 · 4 min read

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The Ryder Cup is the best three days in golf. It's also increasingly predictable, and predictability is the enemy of great sport.

Three changes fix it.

One. No captain's picks. All twelve based on standings. This kills the endless debate cycle and rewards the guys who actually earn it.

Two. Sunday singles are seeded by Saturday performance. The hottest player on each side meets the hottest on the other. Anchor matches matter again.

Three. Blind draw for Friday morning pairings. Let's see who can play with a stranger. This is match play, not a country club member-guest.

Will it happen? No. Should it? Absolutely.

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It's also increasingly predictable, and predictability is the enemy of great sport.

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